MSN Music postpones DRM server shutdown until 2011

In response to the whole Internet basically ejaculating its central nervous system in collective outrage, Microsoft is postponing the de-commissioning of their MSN Music DRM servers, which means that the music you legally purchased will be yours to listen to until 2011. Thrillsville, guys.

On April 22, Microsoft notified you that as of August 31st, 2008, we would be changing the level of support for music purchased from MSN Music, and while your existing purchased music would continue to play, you would no longer be able to authorize new PCs and devices to play that music. After careful consideration, Microsoft has decided to continue to support the authorization of new computers and devices and delivery of new license keys for MSN Music customers through at least the end of 2011, after which we will evaluate how much this functionality is still being used and what steps should be taken next to support our customers.

Microsoft, the only appropriate next step is replacing the DRM tracks you have sold customers with non-DRM equivalents. Period. Irate triple exclamation point.

2 Responses to “MSN Music postpones DRM server shutdown until 2011”

I wonder… how does the total cost of ownership of a music service for which MS have to maintain a server farm to propogate licenses for 20 years compare with refusing to DRM-cripple the songs in the first place and having to pay the song publisher more for the privilege?